Nissan 370Z: Track Star Or Garage Queen?

Hey guys, let's talk about the Nissan 370Z and whether it's a worthy companion for your track day adventures. The 370Z has been a popular choice for enthusiasts for years, known for its sporty handling, powerful engine, and relatively affordable price tag. But, is it actually a good track car, or is it more of a stylish street machine that looks the part but struggles when pushed to its limits? We're going to dive deep into the pros and cons of taking a 370Z to the track, covering everything from its performance characteristics to common modifications and potential issues you might encounter. Buckle up, because we're about to dissect the Z and see if it's a track-day hero or a garage queen.

The Nissan 370Z's Track-Worthy Attributes

Alright, so let's start with the good stuff. What makes the Nissan 370Z a potentially good track car? Well, for starters, the heart of the beast: the engine. The 370Z is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine, affectionately known as the VQ37VHR. This engine produces a healthy amount of horsepower and torque, offering plenty of grunt to accelerate out of corners and down the straights. The engine's responsiveness and willingness to rev make it a blast to drive on the track, where you can keep the engine singing at higher RPMs. Another significant advantage of the 370Z is its balanced chassis. Nissan has a reputation for building cars with excellent handling characteristics, and the 370Z is no exception. Its front-midship engine layout, where the engine is positioned behind the front axle, helps to distribute weight more evenly, contributing to better balance and reduced understeer. This means the car feels more composed and predictable when cornering at high speeds, making it easier to control and enjoy on the track. The stock suspension, while not perfect, is a decent starting point. It provides a good balance between comfort and performance, and it's certainly capable of handling the rigors of track driving. With some minor adjustments, like upgrading the springs and dampers, the handling can be further improved.

Beyond the performance aspects, the 370Z has a few other things going for it. The car's relatively compact size and light weight, compared to some of its competitors, make it nimble and easy to maneuver on the track. This translates to quicker lap times and more fun behind the wheel. The aftermarket support for the 370Z is also extensive. There's a wide range of parts and accessories available, from performance upgrades to cosmetic enhancements, allowing you to tailor the car to your specific needs and preferences. This means you can easily find parts to improve its track performance, such as upgraded brakes, suspension components, and engine modifications. The 370Z also has a reasonable price tag. While the initial cost of purchasing a 370Z might be a factor, it is generally more affordable than some of its rivals. This makes it an accessible option for those who want to get into track driving without breaking the bank. The combination of performance, handling, and affordability makes the 370Z a tempting proposition for track enthusiasts.

Potential Downsides and Considerations for Track Use

Now, let's talk about the not-so-good stuff. Despite its many strengths, the Nissan 370Z isn't without its weaknesses, especially when it comes to track use. One of the biggest concerns is the cooling system. The 370Z is known to struggle with overheating, particularly during extended track sessions. The engine and oil can reach high temperatures, potentially leading to performance degradation or even engine damage. This is a common issue that many 370Z owners address with upgrades like larger radiators, oil coolers, and improved air ducting. Next up, the brakes. While the stock brakes are adequate for street driving, they can quickly fade on the track. Repeated hard braking can cause the brake pads to overheat, leading to a loss of stopping power. This is where upgrades like high-performance brake pads, rotors, and brake lines are highly recommended for track use. Another area of concern is the differential. The stock limited-slip differential (LSD) in the 370Z is not as robust as some of its competitors' units. It can wear out or fail under the stresses of track driving, which can lead to a loss of traction and reduced performance. Upgrading to a more durable and aggressive LSD is a popular modification for track-focused 370Zs. Durability is another thing to think about. The 370Z, like any car, can experience wear and tear on the track. Components like suspension bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings can be subjected to significant stress and may require more frequent replacement than in street use. It's essential to regularly inspect and maintain these components to ensure optimal performance and safety. While the 370Z is a blast to drive, it can be a little unforgiving, especially for inexperienced drivers. The car's direct steering and responsive handling can make it feel twitchy and difficult to control if you're not used to it. The car's factory seats are also not the best for track use, providing limited support during high-G cornering. Swapping out the seats for a pair of racing buckets is often a good idea for track-day enthusiasts.

Essential Modifications for Track Performance

Okay, so you're still keen on taking your 370Z to the track? Awesome! To make sure your car is up to the task, and to prevent any of the potential issues we mentioned earlier, you'll likely want to consider a few key modifications. First off, you'll want to tackle the cooling system. As mentioned earlier, overheating is a common problem. Upgrading the radiator to a larger, high-efficiency unit is a must-do. You might also consider installing an oil cooler to keep the engine oil temperatures in check, and you can add some air ducting to improve airflow to the radiator and brakes. The braking system is another area that needs attention. Start with high-performance brake pads that can withstand the high temperatures of track driving. Upgrading the rotors to slotted or drilled units can also improve braking performance and heat dissipation. Braided stainless steel brake lines will provide a firmer pedal feel and prevent brake fade. Suspension upgrades are also a priority. Upgrading to adjustable coilovers will allow you to fine-tune the car's ride height, damping, and spring rates to suit your driving style and the specific track. Stiffer springs and sway bars will reduce body roll and improve handling. A properly aligned car is extremely important to ensure that the car handles well. Consider a good set of track-focused tires, such as semi-slick tires or track-specific tires. Wider tires will provide more grip and improve cornering performance. If you want to increase the grip even more, you can change the LSD to one that is more robust. Don't forget safety! Install a roll bar or roll cage. You may also want to consider upgrading the seats to provide better support. A racing harness is a good addition as well.

Comparing the 370Z to Other Track Cars

So, how does the Nissan 370Z stack up against the competition when it comes to track car prowess? Let's take a look at a few other popular choices and see how they compare. One common comparison is with the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The Miata is often praised for its excellent balance, nimble handling, and affordability. However, the 370Z offers more power and a more aggressive driving experience. The Miata might be a better choice for beginners or those who value agility over outright power. Then there's the Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86. These cars share a similar philosophy to the Miata: light weight, balanced handling, and a focus on driver engagement. However, the 370Z offers more power and a more refined interior, although it's not as nimble as the BRZ or 86. Comparing the 370Z to cars like the BMW M3 or Porsche Cayman, the 370Z is often more affordable, but it may not match the refinement or overall performance of these more expensive options. The M3 and Cayman typically offer better braking performance, more advanced suspension systems, and a more sophisticated driving experience. While the 370Z is a great track car, it might not be the best choice. Ultimately, the best track car for you will depend on your budget, driving experience, and personal preferences. The 370Z is an excellent choice for drivers who want a sporty and engaging car with a good balance of performance, handling, and affordability. The 370Z offers a lot of value for its price and offers a great platform for people to start tracking.

The Verdict: Is the 370Z a Good Track Car?

So, is the Nissan 370Z a good track car? The answer is: it depends. It is a fantastic platform that can be very capable on the track, offering a great balance of performance, handling, and affordability. However, it requires some essential modifications to address its weaknesses, particularly in the areas of cooling, braking, and durability. If you are prepared to invest in these upgrades and are willing to take the time to learn the car's nuances, the 370Z can be an extremely rewarding car to drive on the track. For those who are not as interested in investing in the modifications, or for those just starting out, the 370Z can still be a fun car to drive on the track. The 370Z offers an exciting track experience for drivers of all skill levels. If you prioritize raw performance and are willing to put in the work, the 370Z could be the perfect track car for you!